Ep 1. Home

Earth: A New Wild is a six-part documentary series that explores humankind's relationship with the planet's wildest places and creatures. In the first episode, entitled "Home," host Dr. M. Sanjayan takes viewers on a tour of the world's diverse ecosystems, ranging from the frigid Arctic to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia. Along the way, he highlights the ways in which people and wildlife have learned to coexist, as well as the challenges that we face in preserving these fragile ecosystems for future generations.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the concept of "rewilding," which refers to the process of restoring natural habitats and reintroducing native species to areas where they have been lost. Dr. Sanjayan visits Yellowstone National Park, where the reintroduction of wolves in the 1990s has had a profound impact on the entire ecosystem. By preying on elk and deer, wolves have allowed vegetation to thrive, which in turn has provided food and shelter for a host of smaller animals. This ripple effect, known as a trophic cascade, is just one example of how rewilding can help restore balance to damaged ecosystems.

From there, Dr. Sanjayan sets out to explore other ecosystems around the world, starting with the Arctic tundra. Here, he meets the indigenous Inuit people, who have adapted to life in one of the harshest environments on Earth. He learns about their traditional hunting techniques, which rely on a deep understanding of the behavior and migration patterns of animals like caribou and walrus. He also witnesses the effects of climate change on the Arctic, including the dramatic loss of sea ice that threatens the survival of animals like polar bears.

Next, Dr. Sanjayan travels to Borneo, a lush rainforest that is home to the highest concentration of biodiversity on the planet. Here, he meets a group of scientists who are studying orangutans, one of our closest living relatives. He learns about the complex social structures of these animals, as well as the threats they face from deforestation and poaching. He also meets with local indigenous people, who are working to protect their traditional lands from encroachment by palm oil plantations.

The episode concludes with a visit to the Serengeti in Tanzania, one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the world. Dr. Sanjayan witnesses the annual migration of wildebeest and zebras, one of the largest mammal movements on Earth. He also learns about the importance of conservation efforts in the region, including anti-poaching patrols that have helped to stabilize populations of endangered species like elephants and rhinos.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Sanjayan emphasizes the interconnectedness of people and wildlife, and the need for us to work together to protect the planet's biodiversity. He also underscores the importance of rewilding and habitat restoration as critical tools in the fight to preserve the Earth's wildest places. "Home" is an inspiring and informative introduction to the series, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing our planet in the years ahead.